State Schools Superintendent Glenda Ritz spoke at a public session at the Indianapolis-Marion County Public Library, Central Library branch, about education on Tuesday, October 29, 2013.

As a teacher, I required my students to focus on their learning, and I expect our political leaders to do the same. At the core of school accountability is the belief that every child can learn and grow. Positive education transformation occurs through discussion that is not polarizing, adult-centered or partisan in nature.

Now that a judge has dismissed her lawsuit, Superintendent of Public Instruction Glenda Ritz has a tremendous opportunity to put the focus where it truly belongs, on the children of Indiana. It is clear that her lawsuit and rhetoric have been distractions that have no clear benefit to students or educators. Indiana's educators deserve recognition for their laser-sharp focus on student achievement.

We can continue the work that needs to be done with clear, consistent and objective goals that will keep Indiana moving forward. I urge Superintendent Ritz, and others, to center their conversation on the right of our children to have access to a quality education; only through this focus can we become transformational.

Curt Merlau

Bloomington

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

Email this article

Glenda Ritz can now focus on what's best for students

As a teacher, I required my students to focus on their learning, and I expect our political leaders to do the same. At the core of school accountability is the belief that every child can learn and